In just a few months since opening, Providence Joseph House in Seattle’s White Center neighborhood has filled all 65 of its brand new low income apartments. Providence Joseph House is Providence Senior and Community Services’ newest supportive housing ministry. Named in honor of Mother Joseph of the Sacred Heart, foundress of the Sisters of Providence in the West, the ministry opened in September 2012 and serves seniors and younger disabled residents. The ministry honors our Mission and legacy of caring by providing affordable housing to those who might otherwise be marginally housed or homeless.
Changing Residents’ Lives
“I am so happy to live here,” raves Diana Goines, the very first resident to move into the facility. “It’s so calming to be able to sit outside on the patio and listen to the neighborhood noise and the laughter of children playing at the nearby schools. I just love it!”
Before moving into Joseph House, Diana, 65, was struggling to get by. The mother of two and grandmother of five was laid off from work and the rent at her senior housing complex was more than she could afford on her fixed income. In addition, Diana has diabetes and much of her monthly income went to her insulin supply and half a dozen medications.
“I was having problems when I was in my last home because I was spending around $700 a month just on medication. By the time I got my pills, sometimes I wouldn’t have any money left for food. It was getting to the place where I had to decide what I wanted to do; usually it was pay for my medication if I could, and then I would go to the food bank for food.”
Moving into Joseph House has “taken a lot of pressure off my shoulders” says Diana. “It’s changed my life because I am able to relax and enjoy myself and do more for myself than I could before.”
Joseph House residents pay approximately 30 percent of their monthly income for rent and the remainder is covered by government subsidies from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
A blessing ceremony was held at the ministry in October and guests included several Sisters of Providence, community members, Providence staff and Joseph House residents. Diana was grateful to see so much support for her new home.
“I’m thankful to Providence and the Sisters that I am able to be here and be safe. Words can’t express my feelings. If I could have hugged all of the sisters (at the blessing) I would have done that – that’s how happy I am!”
Providence Joseph House is one of 14 Providence Supportive Housing programs located in Washington, Oregon and California. Each house offers independent living in an apartment setting along with services coordination for the residents. The seniors on fixed incomes and disabled adults who call these ministries home enjoy a sense of well-being, independence and more fulfilling lives as a result of living in a safe and affordable apartment and welcoming community.
About the Author
More Content by Timothy Zaricznyj, Ed.D.
